Google releases July 2018 security updates

Google’s Android team has released the July 2018 security update alongside a small update for Pixel/Nexus devices. As has been the case, Google is issuing two different security patches with one dated 2018-07-01 and the other 2018-07-05. Google starting pushing these updates to the AOSP repository yesterday and the process should be completed later today or tomorrow so that Android partners have some flexibility in incorporating the updates into their own device updates.

According to the team’s post, the most severe issued addressed in this most recent security update involves the Media framework and could allow an attacker to execute code on a device at a higher security level than it should be able to. Google says they are not aware of any exploits that have affected customers that make use of the vulnerability. Several other issues were also addressed in the updates, including a slew of Qualcomm issues.

Owners of Pixel and Nexus devices will also be receiving an update that includes these security enhancements. Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL device owners will also be getting an update to address consistency with WiFi connections to certain routers. Google says that update is not connected to any security issues and is purely a functional improvement.

Raised in North Carolina, Jeff Causey is a licensed CPA in North Carolina. Jeff's past Android devices include an HTC EVO, a Samsung Note II, an LG G3, and a Motorola Moto X Pure Edition along with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet 10.1. He currently uses a Samsung Galaxy S8 and (very rarely) a Nexus 7 (2013). He is also using a Verizon-branded Motorola Moto Z Play Droid supplied by his job. Jeff used to have a pair of Google Glass and a Moto 360 Sport in his stable of gadgets. Unfortunately, his kids have all drunk the Apple Kool-Aid and have i-devices. Life at home often includes demonstrations of the superiority of his Android based devices. In his free time, Jeff is active an active runner usually training for his next marathon, owns a Mazda MX-5 Miata, and plays Dungeons & Dragons. Jeff has three grown kids and a golden retriever.